Pinot Noir East Ridge, Hirsch Vineyards 2021

The 2021 Pinot Noir East Ridge is a wild, exotic wine. Dark and mysterious, the 2021 possesses striking nuance and complexity. A wine of deceptive power and structure, the 2021 exudes class. There's plenty of tannin, but all the elements are so well balanced. Layers of vibrant fruit build over time, leading to a deep, explosive finish that is unforgettable. The balance here is magnificent. (Drink between 2026-2041)

While the West Ridge is a low-vigor site from the magnesium in the clay, the East Ridge is low vigor due to the lack of topsoil in the vineyard. This is also the first vineyard where they practice no-till farming, which they are working toward across the estate. Located on opposite sides of the property, the East Ridge Vineyard has more clay and sandstone soils than the West Ridge and experiences cold temperatures at night. Pouring a darker ruby/red color, the 2021 Pinot Noir East Ridge jumps out of the glass with mineral-tinged aromas of graphite lifted with darker fruit notes of black raspberries and fresh sage. Moving to the palate, it’s muscular in its structure, with a medium to full-bodied frame, ripe tannins, and a long finish. It’s going to need time to soften and unfurl, when it will lean into more umami and savory undertones. Drink 2026-2042.